It’s important to have exciting things to look forward to, and they don’t come much more exciting than the revised Audi RS 5 Coupé and Sportback models which form part of the Audi Sport offensive rolling out in 2020 and 2021.

We brought you the first images and information on the revised RS 5 models late last year, and here, Benjamin Holle goes over the changes – both subtle and overt – that define these latest incarnations of the high-performance models.

The performance figures are well known, with the V6 twin-turbo producing 331kW, coupled with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, and the intelligent Dynamic Ride Control suspension technology making for an irresistible performance package.

The changes are in the look and the sheer presence of the new models, as well as in the stunning interior and the operating system. The new Singleframe is much flatter and wider making the car seem even more ‘planted’ and lower than ever before. The face is much sharper and more aggressive – indeed there is more ‘attitude’, and the nods to the brand’s illustrious motorsport past have been seamlessly integrated into these contemporary performance monsters. From the air vent openings above the grille (think Audi Sport quattro from 1984), to the flared guards (massaged out 15mm) to the large air intakes that are also inspired by motorsport.

The side view is characterised by the new sill trims and the intensive light-shadow interplay again makes the RS 5 models look wider and deeper – visually lowing the centre of gravity.

Like the new RS 6 Avant and RS 7 Sportback (also due in Australia later in the year), the new RS-specific bumper and the diffuser insert give the RS 5 an accentuated rear end and the striking diffuser showcases the RS exhaust system with its distinctive twin oval exhausts.

Rolling stock is made up of 19-inch wheels as standard, with 20-inch wheels in three new designs available as options. Featured here on the Sonoma green RS 5 Sportback are one of the optional wheel designs, milled and painted in matt bronze to create a dramatic effect.

Inside too the RS 5 Coupé and Sportback now use the MMI touch operating system used in the RS 6 and RS 7, which is based on the new third-generation modular infotainment platform (MIB 3). The large display, which is equipped with acoustic feedback, stands freely in the space and is slightly tilted toward the driver. Its menu structure is simple and intuitive like that of a smartphone and the natural-language voice control understands everyday speech, for even greater flexibility. 

With the top spec MMI Navigation plus infotainment system, the ‘RS monitor’ view informs the driver about the engine and transmission temperature, the maximum longitudinal and lateral acceleration values, and the tyre pressure and temperature in the central MMI display. In the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit, special RS displays concerning tyre pressure, torque, output, engine oil temperature, boost pressure, and g-forces can also be shown. And, in keeping with the high-performance nature of the RS 5 models, lap times and acceleration from 0 to 100km/h can also be started directly via a button on the steering wheel. 

Then there are the RS1 and RS 2 modes in the Audi Drive select system, joining the comfort, auto, and dynamic drive modes. These can be individually configured, saved, and then selected directly and quickly via the RS Mode button on the multi-function steering wheel. The Audi drive select influences the operation of important technical elements, including the engine, tiptronic, steering, and optional components, such as damping, dynamic steering, sport differential, and exhaust flaps – which equates to greater driver control over every aspect of the car’s performance, for the ultimate driving experience.

Although it won’t be until later in the year that the new RS 5 models arrive in Australia, this is the sort light at the end of the tunnel that makes the current situation that much more bearable.

Pricing, specification and Australian launch date will be confirmed later in 2020.